Know Before You Go
Planning a trip to the Sunshine Coast? Here’s what you need to know before you go so that you can explore safely, responsibly, and respectfully.
Travel Updates and Information
Community Notices
Water usage: In the Sunshine Coast Regional District, stage 2 water conservation regulations are in effect as of July 5, 2024 for water users on the Chapman and Eastbourne water systems. Stage 1 water conservation regulations are in effect in other areas of the Sunshine Coast.
The Sunshine Coast faces increased demand on drinking water resources during periods of drought. Conserving water is a collective effort—familiarize yourself with local water restrictions before you arrive and learn more about how to conserve water during your trip.
Additionally, a 'Water Quality Advisory' has been issued for the community of Lund. This is not a boil water notice, but rather a notice that some customers may want to take additional precautions, such as those who are immunocompromised or pregnant. If you are staying in Lund, please inquire with your accommodation for more details.
Campfires: As of noon on July 12, 2024, campfires are prohibited throughout British Columbia. Click here for more details on the restrictions in the Coastal Fire Centre area, which includes the Sunshine Coast. Currently, this prohibition does not include the use of CSA-rated or ULC-rated outdoor stoves used for cooking that burn charcoal briquettes, liquid fuel or gaseous fuel, and have a flame height of less than 15 cm tall.
Call *5555 on a cell or 1.800.663.5555 (toll-free) to report a wildfire. A new BC Wildfire Service app is now available for download, and includes interactive maps, news and advisories, and a reporting tool.
Bring your patience: Some local businesses are experiencing labour shortages. Please remember to be patient in the event of longer-than-normal wait times or unexpected closures.
Backcountry Preparedness: Familiarize yourself with Leave No Trace principles and check out AdventureSmart as a great resource to help you get informed before heading outdoors. Remember the three Ts—trip planning, training, and taking the essentials.
Roads, Ferries & Transportation
Roads: Construction is underway in areas along Highway 101. Please check Drive BC for details on the current conditions on Highway 101, and leave some extra time to get to your destination. For all other roads on the Sunshine Coast, please visit scrd.ca/alerts for the South Coast and qathet.ca for the North Coast.
Delays are expected between Powell River and Lund in both directions. Paving operations are happening from 7am to 7pm Monday to Saturday between Larson Road and Wilde Road until Friday, September 20. There will be single lane alternating traffic; watch for traffic control.
BC Ferries: The Sunshine Coast is a popular summer destination. Making a ferry reservation is recommended, but if you’re unable to make a reservation, keep in mind that space is also available on a first-come, first-served basis. Visit bcferries.com for information on travel advisories, route status updates, and current conditions on major routes. You can also download the new BC Ferries app to book trips, check in at the terminal, and stay up-to-date with alerts.
Powell River Airport (YPW): A runway rehabilitation project is underway. Daytime flight schedules have resumed (starting June 8, 2024), while nighttime flight operations are set to resume following completion of the project later this summer. Click here for more information.
Parks & Trails
The bridge at the wetland (to the right of the campground) in Inland Lake Provincial Park has been damaged by storms. Inland Lake Trail is no longer fully accessible and the trail will not be a loop until the re-routing is complete.
Porpoise Bay Provincial Park is open for day use, however the Angus Creek trails between the beach and the amphitheatre are temporarily closed.
Visit the BC Parks website for information on provincial parks. Visit qathet.ca or scrd.ca for information on regional parks.
Short-term Rentals (STRs)
The Province of BC introduced new short-term rental rules effective May 1, 2024. This includes implementing a provincial principal residence requirement in most urban communities in BC; on the Sunshine Coast this applies to the District of Sechelt and the City of Powell River, but not the surrounding rural areas. Hosts will be required to display a business license in areas where they are required by a local government.
If you are planning a trip to the Sunshine Coast, you can check with your short-term rental host directly to confirm they comply with local government regulations and with BC’s new STR rules. Click here to learn more.
